The Skoda Citigo, particularly the facelifted 3-door model produced from 2017 to 2019 with the 1.0-liter 60 horsepower engine, represents a key entry point into the Skoda brand during that period. Positioned as a city car, it was part of the Volkswagen Group’s strategy to offer affordable and efficient transportation, sharing its platform and many components with the Volkswagen up! and SEAT Mii. The 2017 facelift brought styling updates and revised equipment levels, aiming to enhance the Citigo’s appeal in a competitive segment. This specific 1.0-liter variant was primarily targeted at buyers seeking low running costs and ease of use, making it a popular choice for first-time car owners and urban commuters.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Skoda |
| Model | Citigo |
| Generation | Citigo (facelift 2017, 3-door) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 (60 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 101 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 162 km/h (100.66 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.2 kg/Hp, 70.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9 kg/Nm, 111.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 60 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 95 Nm @ 3000 rpm (70.07 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CHYA |
| Engine displacement | 999 cm3 (60.96 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 76.4 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.4 l (3.59 US qt | 2.99 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 854 kg (1882.75 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1290 kg (2843.96 lbs.) |
| Max load | 436 kg (961.22 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 251 l (8.86 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 951 l (33.58 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 35 l (9.25 US gal | 7.7 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Length | 3597 mm (141.61 in.) |
| Width | 1641 mm (64.61 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1910 mm (75.2 in.) |
| Height | 1478 mm (58.19 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2420 mm (95.28 in.) |
| Front track | 1428 mm (56.22 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1424 mm (56.06 in.) |
| Front overhang | 633 mm (24.92 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 544 mm (21.42 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 136 mm (5.35 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.315-0.325 |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.8 m (32.15 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-dependent beam with stabilizer lateral stability |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 165/70 R14; 185/55 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 5J x 14; 5.5J x 15 |
INTRODUCTION
The Skoda Citigo, launched in 2012 and receiving a significant facelift in 2017, was Skoda’s entry into the burgeoning city car segment. This 3-door version, powered by the 1.0-liter CHYA engine producing 60 horsepower, was a core part of the lineup from 2017 until production ended in 2019. Built on the Volkswagen Group’s A05 (1HX0/A3) platform – shared with the VW up! and SEAT Mii – the Citigo aimed to provide affordable, practical, and fuel-efficient transportation. The facelift brought revised front and rear styling, updated interior trim, and improvements to the infotainment system, enhancing its competitiveness against rivals like the Hyundai i10 and Kia Picanto.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Citigo variant is the 999cc, three-cylinder CHYA engine. This naturally aspirated engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and four valves per cylinder. The CHYA engine is known for its simplicity and reliability, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. The engine’s compact size and lightweight construction contribute to the Citigo’s nimble handling. Paired with a five-speed manual transmission (an automatic option was available in some markets, but less common), the powertrain delivers power to the front wheels. The engine’s relatively low compression ratio and modest power output are geared towards maximizing efficiency and minimizing emissions, meeting Euro 6 standards. The engine oil capacity is 3.4 liters, and it requires a specification oil adhering to VW Group standards.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.0-liter 60 hp Citigo is not designed for rapid acceleration. Its 0-60 mph time of around 13.7 seconds reflects its focus on urban usability rather than performance. However, the engine is surprisingly responsive at lower speeds, making it well-suited for navigating city streets. The five-speed manual transmission is light and precise, allowing drivers to make the most of the available power. Gear ratios are optimized for fuel efficiency, with a relatively tall fifth gear for comfortable highway cruising. Compared to higher-output versions of the Citigo (which were not commonly available in the US market), this variant offers a more relaxed driving experience, prioritizing economy over excitement. The lightweight chassis and well-tuned suspension contribute to a comfortable ride, even on uneven surfaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2017 facelifted Citigo 1.0 60 hp typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included central locking, power steering, ABS brakes, front airbags, and an adjustable steering column. Higher trim levels, such as the ‘Elegance’ or ‘Sport’ (depending on the market), added features like alloy wheels, air conditioning, electric front windows, and a more sophisticated infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a simple and functional dashboard layout. Optional extras included parking sensors, a navigation system, and heated front seats. The 3-door configuration meant rear passenger access was less convenient than the 5-door version.
Chassis & Braking
The Citigo’s chassis is designed for agility and efficiency. It features a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-dependent torsion beam rear suspension. The front suspension incorporates an anti-roll bar to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced stopping power and stability. The relatively lightweight construction of the Citigo contributes to its nimble handling and low fuel consumption. The steering is electrically assisted, providing a light and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Skoda Citigo 1.0 60 hp was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and affordable city car. Its fuel economy was a major selling point, with combined figures of around 53.5 US mpg. However, some reviewers noted its lack of outright performance and relatively basic interior. Compared to other trims in the Citigo lineup, this variant offered the lowest price point and the best fuel economy, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Against rivals like the Hyundai i10 and Kia Picanto, the Citigo offered a competitive package, with a reputation for reliability and a spacious interior for its size.
Legacy
The Skoda Citigo, and specifically the 1.0-liter 60 hp variant, has proven to be a reliable and durable city car. The CHYA engine is known for its longevity, and the simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy and inexpensive to maintain. On the used car market, these Citigos are often sought after for their low running costs and practicality. While not a performance car, it remains a viable option for those seeking an affordable and efficient mode of transportation. The Citigo’s success helped establish Skoda as a major player in the European city car segment, paving the way for future models like the Fabia and Octavia.
